The McIntosh County Democrat (MCD) has announced its 2026 Checotah Wildcats Basketball Players of the Year, recognizing a successful and hard-fought season for the Checotah Wildcats.
With strong leadership, balanced scoring, and relentless defense, the Wildcats put together a campaign that showcased determination and growth from start to finish. Checotah had a solid team with players like Wes Brown, Levi Chapman, Izayah Tyde, Baylor Carter, Traegan Duvall, Cooper Cutbirth and others that played a crucial part in the Wildcats’ success.
The 2026 MCD Most
Valuable Player is Rowan Chapman. Chapman, whose all-around performance and leadership helped guide the Wildcats throughout the sea- who played key roles in the team’s success.
Leading the way is the 2026 MCD Most Valuable Player of the Year Cheyanne Madewell. Madewell was the lone senior on the team and suffered a torn ACL prior to regional action. Her allaround play and leadership helped guide the Lady Wildcats throughout the season. Madewell consistently stepped up in big moments, providing scoring, rebounding and defensive intensity whenever her team needed it most. Her ability to impact the game in multiple ways made her an invaluable presence on the court and a natural choice for the team’s top honor.
Madewell’s leadership helped set the tone for the Lady Wildcats as she demonstrated toughness, confidence and poise throughout the season. Whether attacking the basket, hitting key shots or leading by example, she proved to be the heartbeat of the team. She averaged 6 three-point baskets per game, led the team in free throws shooting 68.2% and assists while averaging 14 ppg.
The 2026 MCD Offensive Player of the Year is Logan Dowdy.
She provided a spark for the Lady Wildcats with her scoring ability and offensive creativity. Dowdy consistently found ways to put points on the board and create opportunities for her teammates. Her quickness, court vision and ability to deliver in crucial moments made her one of the most dangerous offensive players in the area. She shot 29% from the three-point arch, 44% free throws, and averaged 3 rebounds and 2 assists per game.
Dowdy’s contributions were especially valuable in tight games, where her ability to break down defenses and hit timely shots helped Checotah stay competitive throughout the season.
The 2026 MCD Defensive Co-Players of the Years are Nakia Carr and KalleighYork.
Both earned the honor for their relentless effort and commitment to stopping opponents. Both players played a major role in establishing the Lady Wildcats’ defensive identity. Carr averaged 5.5 rebounds per game and York 5.2 rebounds per game. Both blocked shots and forced opponents out of their shooting lanes.
Carr brought energy and toughness every time she stepped on the floor. Her ability to pressure ball handlers, disrupt passing lanes and battle for rebounds helped fuel the Lady Wildcats’ defense and create scoring opportunities in transition.
York also made her presence felt on the defensive end with her hustle and determination. Whether contesting shots, diving for loose balls or locking down key opponents, York’s effort helped set the tone for Checotah’s defensive intensity.
The Lady Wildcats’ success this season also reflected the leadership of Cloud. Under his guidance, the team showed steady improvement and developed strong chemistry. His ability to motivate and develop players helped create a competitive team that battled every night.
Checotah appears poised to build on this year’s success and carry that momentum into next season.
